When they say the cloud is the future, they are correct in the sense that most of the IT needs of businesses will probably be addressed by the cloud. The advantages of moving to the cloud are so apparent that they can’t be ignored.
On the other hand, it’s also wrong. Why? Because the cloud is also the present. More and more companies are shifting their IT assets to the cloud. Even businesses with on-premise systems combine their current setup with cloud components.
A Cloud Computing Service that is Mobile and Scalable
Cloud computing refers to the practice of using a remotely-hosted network of servers to store, manage, and process data and software applications, rather than on a locally-hosted server.
The cloud provides users with distinct benefits not received with on-premise IT infrastructures.
Mobility – Users are able to access the network, together with the data and applications hosted on the cloud, from anywhere as long as they have an internet connection. This allows businesses to encourage employees to explore opportunities outside the office and work from anywhere. In addition, it also allows organizations to promote remote work and hire people who do not have to report to a physical office.
Scalability – Since cloud computing is delivered as a service instead of as a product, businesses simply subscribe to start using its services. Each subscription offers a certain bandwidth – if the business needs more, they can easily increase their subscription instead of having to install a new set of servers, which is what needs to be done for on-premise systems. In addition, if the business needs to expand its reach, they can simply access the same cloud-hosted network on their new location because all it requires is a stable internet connection.
Where the Cloud is Going
While the cloud is where most businesses are going in terms of information technology, the cloud is still in its infancy. It was just a couple of decades ago that on-premises systems ruled the business technology landscape, which means that the cloud has a lot more room to grow.
What to Expect in the Future of Cloud Computing
Expansion of Internet of Things (IoT) – Right now, the use of IoT in the workplace is very limited. There are smart cameras and smart printers but that’s about it (your smart coffee maker does not count). There will be significant growth to the adoption of IoT technology especially with the introduction of Amazon’s Alexa for Business.
More Demand for Big Data – Businesses are going crazy about data and analytics right now. The trend is expected to continue in the future. The cloud is perfect for that because every move in the cloud is tracked and data is always produced. It is a matter of harnessing this big data and getting significant insights that will help improve different aspects of the business.
Unified Applications and Integrations – In the past, it was about securing applications by closing it upon itself. Nowadays, applications are friendly with each other. You will see popular cloud applications with integration options for other applications. Developers are also encouraged to build custom apps that integrate popular cloud apps through open-source APIs and SDKs.
More Emphasis in Cybersecurity – With the expansion of cloud adoption, it should come as no surprise that threats and attacks against it will also increase. Hackers continuously come up with new ways to create havoc to business networks, which are now hosted in the cloud. That is why cloud providers will continue to invest in high-level cybersecurity measures and strategies that will successfully counteract all types of cyber-attacks.
thinkIT Solutions is a Full-Service IT Provider Specializing in Cloud Solutions
If you are interested in cloud computing services that will serve both your current and future business needs, contact thinkIT Solutions to get started.
